Celebrate the Holiday Cheer With These Dec. 2023 Theater Shows in Manila

Just like that, December has arrived! This year was a treat for theater enthusiasts in the Philippines, having witnessed “Hamilton” and the return of “Ang Huling El Bimbo” live to the stage. And who could forget the announcement of the upcoming staging of “One More Chance” musical next year?

But as we’re counting down to the day the calendar flips to 2024, Manila’s theater scene still has a lot of surprises waiting to be unveiled: from eye-opening plays that will make us reflect to magical musicals that will let us feel the spirit of Christmas. Before we unwrap our gifts, pen our New Year resolutions, and welcome 2024 with open arms, check out what Manila has to offer theater lovers this month!

‘Puso ng Pasko’ – Dec. 1-2 & 22

Kicking off the month of Christmas festivities is Alice Reyes Dance Philippines’ “Puso ng Pasko.” With acclaimed national artists Alice Reyes and Ryan Cayabyab lending their talents to its production, the show promises to give its spectators the best of dance and music.

The all-Filipino ballet features Lolo Val, a Filipino who lives in California, who recounts his precious memories of celebrating Christmas with his friends back in the ‘70s in his hometown. It will also feature lovely scenes from a traditional Pinoy Christmas, such as completing the Simbang Gabi, munching on Puto Bumbong, parols illuminating every house in the neighborhood, and many more.

How much: P500, P1,500, P2,000 / More info here

Location: Metropolitan Theater, Padre Burgos Avenue cor. Arroceros Street, Ermita, Manila

‘Unspoken: Walang Bago sa Dulang Ito & F.Y.P.’ – Dec. 3

In celebration of its fifth anniversary, non-profit organization Act Avenue is staging a twin-bill production under the title “Unspoken.” It will feature two plays, centered around educating and opening the perspectives of its audiences on recurring social issues in the modern world.

“Walang Bago sa Dulang Ito,” previously featured on Virgin Labfest’s “Hinga,” talks about the hurdles women encounter in modern society. Meanwhile, “F.Y.P.” aims to raise awareness about H.I.V. through a daring show. Although the production will stage two plays, you only need one ticket to watch both!

How much: P300 (Students), P350 (Regular) / Click here to purchase

Location: The Mirror Studio, 8463 Kalayaan Ave., Makati City, Metro Manila

‘'Tis The Season – In Search Of The Christmas Spirit’ – Dec. 4

Following a long hiatus due to the pandemic, the Company of Actors in Streamlined Theatre (CAST) has finally brought back its staged reading festival this year! Featuring three plays, which started on Nov. 20, the festival tackles things people love and hate about the Christmas season.

This December, CAST will be staging the third and final play under the festival, vaguely titled “Play #3.” It is directed by Jaime del Mundo and stars some of the best names in the theater scene: Nelsito Gomez, Maronne Cruz, Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante, Noel Rayos, and Robbie Guevara. Book your tickets and find out if Christmas miracles really do exist!

How much: P400 / Message CAST PH or email them at [email protected] to reserve

Location: The Mirror Studio, 8463 Kalayaan Ave., Makati City, Metro Manila

‘The Nutcracker’ – Dec. 16-17

Ending the 37th season of the Philippine Ballet Theatre (PBT) with elegance is its whimsical ballet show “The Nutcracker!” Showcasing their own version of the holiday classic, PBT is set to dazzle its spectators with graceful dances and entrancing music with the show. “The Nutcracker” shares the tale of a little girl and her journey in a fantasy world filled with magical creatures like toy soldiers, princesses, fairies, and more.

How much: P515 (Bronze), P1,030 (Silver), P2,060 (Gold), P3,090 (VIP), P3,605 (SVIP) / Click here to purchase

Location: Newport Performing Arts Theater, L2, Newport Mall, 1309 Newport Blvd., Newport City, Pasay City, Metro Manila

‘Christmas Fairytales’ – Dec. 15-17

After Coppelia, Ballet Philippines is bringing yet another marvelous tale to the theater stage! Titled “Christmas Fairytales,” the play features a fairytale crossover that’s one for the books. The story revolves around Tala, a little girl who travelled to a fairytale world through her dreams. Here, she meets princesses, fairies, and even villains from various fairytale stories, including Cinderella, the Little Red Riding Hood, Aurora, and Ali Baba, among others. She wakes up in the real world, which turns out to be more magical than her fantasy-filled journey.

How much: P618 (Balcony B), P824 (Balcony A), P1,545 (Premium Gold), P1,854 (Orchestra Back), P2,575 (Orchestra Side), P3,090 (Orchestra Center) / Click here to purchase.

Location: The Theatre at Solaire, Aseana Avenue Entertainment City, Parañaque City, Metro Manila

‘Cinderella’ – Dec. 25-30

Speaking of fairytales, Ballet Manila, the brainchild of world-renowned ballerina Liza Macuja Elizalde, will also stage its version of the classic story of “Cinderella!” Embodying the cheerful and festive spirit of Christmas, Ballet Manila’s “Cinderella” promises its spectators “all things good and magical.” Prepare your hearts and opera glasses for the show’s live special effects, romantic tunes, comedic scenarios, and many more!

How much: P515 (Side), P824 (Center) / Click here to purchase

Location: Aliw Theater, CCP Complex, Vicente Sotto St., Pasay City, Metro Manila